A network of Colombian mercenaries backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) provided critical support to Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), enabling it to capture the western city of el-Fasher last year, according to a report by the Conflict Insights Group (CIG). The investigation utilized mobile phone tracking data from the Colombian fighters and covers developments from April 2025 to January 2026. Despite the UAE's denials of any support, the findings strongly suggest a proven link between the Emirati government and the RSF's actions in the ongoing conflict. The fall of el-Fasher, marked by significant atrocities, is part of a wider humanitarian crisis in Sudan that has resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties and millions displaced. This report has been characterized as the first evidence confirming UAE involvement in the RSF's military gains, spotlighting the network's role in drone operations and military training in Sudan.
UAE-Backed Colombian Mercenaries Boost Sudan's RSF Forces, Reports Reveal
UAE-Backed Colombian Mercenaries Boost Sudan's RSF Forces, Reports Reveal
A new investigation indicates that Colombian mercenaries, supported by the UAE, played a pivotal role in enabling Sudan's paramilitary forces to capture the city of el-Fasher amidst ongoing conflict.
Colombian mercenaries have been identified as instrumental in supporting Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) with drone operations and military tactics, leading to the capture of el-Fasher. The Conflict Insights Group's findings suggest direct involvement of the UAE in facilitating this support, despite its previous denials.
